Nimes

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About Nimes

You might have heard about Nîmes' magnificent Roman aqueduct, but did you know that Nîmes is where denim comes from? They call it serge de Nîmes. Hopefully that fact has piqued your interest in this city a bit more? Nîmes is not just a treasure trove of wonderfully preserved Roman buildings, it's also close to both the Mediterranean and Provence. And despite the age of its beautiful architecture it's still vibrant. And when it comes to the best places to stay in Nîmes there are some wonderful options. This city is a favourite for several of our Gurus.

What not to Miss

Roman Nîmes

Nîmes sprung up as a Roman city during the construction of the road between Rome and Spain. And here they built all their mod. cons., including baths, temples and a 20,000 seat amphitheatre. An amphitheatre so well preserved it was used as the main setting for the film Gladiator. It might seem strange that it sits right in the centre of town, but the architecture around it is so charming that it doesn't seem out of place.

The other great Roman relic in town is the Maison Carré, a Roman temple dedicated to Emperor Augustus. It's in amazing condition considering it was built in the fourth or fifth century BC.

The aqueduct - Pont du Gard - is 12 miles out of town, but in excellent condition. It was engineered to bring water from the beautiful town of Uzès into the Castellum in Nîmes. And its arches span an incredible 275metres - raised 49metres from the river below. And it was built in the first century AD.

More Highlights (including the denim)

If the comment about denim is still fascinating you, then head to the Musée du Vieux Nîmes, where they have an exhibition devoted to the city's best known export.

Carré d'Art is Nîmes' contemporary art gallery. Just opposite the Maison Carré, it provides a beautiful modern building mirror. If you grab a table at one of the local cafes you can appreciate if from the outside as well as the art inside.

If you love a market, Nîmes won't disappoint. Les Halls, the central food market, might not be an inspiring building - it's the only modern structure along a charming 19th Century boulevard - but you won't be disappointed by the life, colour and smells once you get inside.

The Hotel Guru's selection of the best places to stay in Nîmes will enable you to get the most out of this fantastic city whether you stay in the centre of town or at one of our suggestions just outside.

For location

If you want to be central you can't beat Hotel La Maison de Sophie. Art Deco in style this townhouse B&B has furniture dating from the same period, and large rooms full of character.

The Jardins Secrets offers a little haven amid the busy centre. It's a gorgeous 18th century coaching inn with lovely bedrooms, outdoor pool and spa, yet just minutes from the city's highlights.

For Foodies

Mas de Boudan is a fabulous, Michelin-starred restaurant with four rooms attached. The stunning menu is proper ‘haute couture cuisine’ in an atmospheric converted farmhouse just 3kms outside Nîmes.

Le Huit is a delightful guesthouse with just five rooms arranged around a swimming pool and mini-spa. The decor is contemporary meets original features, and the dining is table d’hote style featuring the best of today’s market.

For Rustic Chic

Just 25km from the centre of Nîmes the Domaine des Clos is a good choice for families or individuals looking for the best of both worlds: explore the region and relax in the perfect holiday environment. It has self catering options and is certainly one of the best places to stay in Nîmes for those wanting to stay in the country but be in reach of city based activities.

For Families

L'Enclos des Lauriers Roses is out of town, set amongst the vineyards and orchards of Provence, so it’s a great place for foodies. The surrounding space - and the family suites also make it ideal for families or larger groups.

For a self-catering Apartment or private Villa

If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

Nîmes airport, or Nîmes–Alès–Camargue–Cévennes airport, is 9kms to the south of the city in the village of Saint-Gilles. Ryanair and Iberia are the only carriers who serve the airport at the moment. Avignon also has a small airport, but Marseille is the largest local hub. You can also arrive by train, probably changing in Lille.

If you want to hire a car - which we advise if you’re staying in Nîmes and want to explore further afield - we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.

Nîmes is close to the French Mediterranean and benefits from the agreeable breezes coming in off the sea to fan the hottest summer days. Which is probably why July and August are still the most popular times to visit. But spring and autumn also offer plenty of sunny days - though autumn can be wet.

Amazing Baroque-Rococco style in this gorgeous 18th century coaching Inn. Rich drapes, fresh linen and soft lighting. Totally spoiling with it's own spa and outdoor pool surrounded
by palms, orange and olive trees. Relax by the fire in the Napoleon 111 bar. An oasis of calm in this historic city. See More

A fabulous restaurant with four contemporary rooms attached. Dine on Chef Jérôme Nutile's stunning menu showcasing the finest "haute couture" cuisine in an atmospheric converted farmhouse. Chic rooms are warm yet modern in style. Located just 3km from Nimes. A true foodies destination. See More

Total relaxation - A rare slice of tranquilty in this hectic city, relax in the jasmine infused garden and take a dip in the pool.

Sights nearby - Short walk brings you to the Nîmes Arena, this splendid monument is the best preserved amphitheatre of the Roman era.

Full of character

Romantic - Good for couples.

Recommended by - Frommers, Fodors, Michelin Travel

Art deco townhouse B&B with bags of character. Elegant bedrooms with Persian carpets, chandeliers and tiled floors. Step out to the fragrant jasmine filled gardens complete with swimming pool and bougainvilleas. Well situated in a quiet part of town yet close to most of the sites. A popular choice. See More